Few bow accessories can significantly compare the best pendulum bow sight in hunting. However, it is the accessory you need to become a successful tree stand hunter. The pendulum is engineered to adjust for the angle of the shot to allow for the optimum angled shot.
However, not just anyone can use this vital component of bowhunting. You need to be knowledgeable about arrow velocity and angles. This rules out newbies because they have neither enough experience nor the requisite knowledge to use a pendulum bow sight.
Furthermore, this accessory has very low accuracy when used for ground shots. So, this is a suitable unit for you if you prefer tree stand hunting.
What Is A Pendulum Bow Sight?
Although we have just introduced this particular component of bows, we need to understand better what it is.
Pendulum sights are peep sights that can focus on the target regardless of the prevailing gradient. The secret behind this ability is the swing system (hence the name pendulum) which aligns with gravity, thus annulling the effects of height or shooting angle.
The system also annuls the effecting from angles different from zero. So, for instance, it will correct sight when shooting from a ravine or atop a tree.
Even though pendulum sights are suited for heights, you can also use them on ground-level shots. This is because high-quality models are lightweight and made from CNC machined aluminium. Such computerized chips ensure the sights perform optimally at elevations and distances as far as 35 yards.
Pendulum sights give the bow a dual shooting nature, which is a plus feature for most professional archers. However, only a few brands have captured this fantastic technology in their bows.
Top 10 Best Pendulum Bow Sight
We have already discussed the attributes of this excellent archery component. Now it’s time to benefit from our reviews of the top 10 models we feel are the best. If you have been looking for the best pendulum bow sight to use, trust our picks. Our reviews are well scripted and will give you an idea of proceeding and getting the best.
1. TRUGLO Pendulum Ultimate Treestand Bow Sight
TRUGLO knows that the best and most experienced hunters and shooters know too well the significance of shooting from an elevated position. Therefore, the TRUGLO pendulum system aligns with gravity as compensation for the high-angled shots.
The TRUGLO Pendulum Ultimate Treestand Bow Sight is constructed with lightweight, durable CNC-machined aluminum, giving it a high level of durability and portability. Besides, the tool-less design allows hunters to lock the sight in place for ground shooting.
The bow sight is designed to compensate for distances ranging from 35 yards automatically. Not many brands currently in the market can manage this. Pre-printed yardage tapes are included to help you with estimation to boost shooting accuracy.
TRUGLO designed this bow sight to be used comfortably by both left and right-handed individuals. This is a fantastic design feature since anyone can use it comfortably. However, a minor manipulation (removal of a screw) makes it truly ambidextrous.
You will find this compound bow straightforward and effortless to install, which is an advantage, especially for those who have little experience. In addition, it comes with a level to help you mount the compound sight evenly to hit your targets consistently.
Another advantage is wrapped fiber optics which ensure you always see your target clearly in low light settings. Besides, you can remove and adjust the rheostat to line up the pin with the center. The sight is quiet to ensure you do not startle your prey.
Pros
- Designed for comfort and versatility
- Appreciably easy to install and adjust
- Features durable metal construction longevity
- Works quietly and perfectly in all weather conditions
Cons
- Some wished the bow sight could go further than 35 yards
- The optional light may not work well
2. TRUGLO Range Rover Single-Pin Moving Bow Sight
TRUGLO believes that brightness counts when it comes to successful hunts. The Range Rover Single Pin Moving bow sight is designed to provide clarity and accuracy when hunting from a higher ground or tree stand.
It features an innovative zero-in adjustment dial capable of providing smooth, exact micro-adjustable elevation tuning. This will give you as a hunter an extra edge in less than perfect hunting conditions.
Another great feature of the Range Rover single pin bow sight is the toolless yardage lock, clean and circular sight with all-metal pin and extra-long fully protected wrapped fibre. Ultra-smooth bracket movement allows for effortless use or adjustment by one hand.
The sight of the housing accepts 1.87 inches scope lens (which is sold separately). Furthermore, laser engraved markings allow for adjusting windage and elevations. There is also an adjustable end-of-travel stop that customizes yardage settings.
TRUGLO’s Range Rover features a quiver mounted directly into the market. The adjustable quiver mount is included, although not for all brands. Luckily, the bow sight is available in dedicated handed-and right-handed configurations. Because of these features, this bow sight will help you improve your accuracy and therefore hunting success.
Pros
- Premium quality single-pin sight
- Clear and clean sight-picture
- Single-hand adjustment with both right- and left-hand configurations
- High-level of accuracy increases success
- Durable all-metal construction
Cons
- It would be desirable to change the single pin from vertical to horizontal
- The bolt that holds the scope housing comes loose
3. HHA Optimizer Lite Ultra 5019 Sight Right Handed
Multi-pin bow sights are becoming the darling of many archers in today’s world. However, single-pin bows still reign supreme regarding accuracy and precision. They work as good as multi-pins sights and at times even for better. Luckily, the HHA optimizer Lite Ultra is precisely what you need to rest your mind.
This bow sight has many excellent features. First, it features a 5-inch fiber optic component that makes the pin very bright and clear. To decode it, 5-inch fiber optic means the accessory has a pin illuminated with a fiber optic material in its housing.
The material gathers light from the environment and channels it to the inner pin in the bow sight housing. The higher the number of fiber optic materials in the housing, the brighter the light will be. You will know this if you have been around bow sights.
Such a high level of luminosity to the sight pin is excellent for 3D archers and bowhunters shooting at targets in the early morning or low-light situations. But does this mean you cannot use the HHA Optimizer Lite Ultra in full-light situations? Not at all because the bow sight will work the same way.
Other great features include a mechanical rheostat in the housing that allows users to regulate the level of brightness in the pin. In addition, the pin is reinforced for sturdiness to withstand use in challenging and complex environments. Finally, HHA Optimizer Lite Ultra has micro-adjustable windage to improve accuracy.
Pros
- Available only on a single configuration, either left or right-handed
- Some users may find the fiber-optic material to be bright
Cons
4. Trophy Ridge Pursuit Vertical Pin Bow Sight, Black
Pursuit Bow Sight allows you to experience limitless shooting with the Pursuit. Several features and specifications make it an ideal choice for both hunters and professional 3D archers.
The first feature is the adjustable vertical indicator pin. This part allows you to effortlessly dial in the exact yardage you need for the various environmental conditions both silently and smoothly. In addition, the Pursuit is available in two styles: right- and left-handed configurations.
The second feature worth mentioning is the Sync Drop Away Rest. This all-new Trophy Ridge Sync Arrow Rest is designed to move everywhere with your bow and arrow. Furthermore, its removable full-containment arm makes sure that your bow is ready at the right moment.
Laterally, adjustable launcher arms let you fine-tune your shot for enhanced accuracy and precision. Finally, cable-driven technology provides a smooth and reliable draw cycle after every flight.
Thirdly, we can mention Trophy Ridge Hitman Stabilizer, another remarkable feature. It is a quick-connect system of the Trophy Ridge stabilizers featuring a target carbon design. The innovative system also provides quick removal of the stabilizer for convenient storage and portability.
Finally, the unit comes pre-assembled with two replaceable 1 oz. Weights. Other components of the Hitman include a mounting bar, a wrist strap, and coloured rings (red, blue, orange, green, yellow and purple) for your bow personalization.
Pros
- Perfect windage and elevation adjustment
- Maintains visibility in low and changing light
- Ultra-bright fiber-optic pin
- Clear, unobstructed view of the target
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- The need for different types of Allen Keys
- No instructions are provided
5. APEX GEAR Covert 1-Pin Sight
Have you had the chance to use a bow with interchangeable pins as a deliberate design feature? Well, Covert 1-Pin sight from Apex Gear. This explains the measurements such as 0.19 and 0.10 in the name of the bow sight. It means you can interchange between the two pins to use what suits your situation.
This flagship feature is one of a kind technology that guarantees hunters successful hunt in less than perfect field conditions. So how do you change the pin? A tiny screw in the sight housing holds the pin in place. All you need to do is to unscrew it and then pull the pin from your direction on the target side of the housing.
Another unique feature is the ability to change the color of the optics as well. So when you set up the pin size of your desire, ensure you slide it over the fiber optic color of choice, and you are good to go.
Despite these great features, all the adjustments are toolless. Only the second and third axes require some adjustment. The Covert-1 bow sight is designed to be used comfortably by left-and right-handed hunters or archers.
Other features include gear-driven control elevation, which makes it easy to adjust with a single hand so that you can adjust your sighting distance as your target moves. It also boasts 120 pre-market yardage tapes that make it easy for you to find precise calibration with your bow set up.
While most buyers praise and appreciate Covet-1, it seems to have a few shortfalls that have more to do with quality than performance. The crews used in the construction of the bow sight appear cheap. Besides, you might not get an Allen Wrench of the correct size.
Pros
- And affordable bow sight of decent quality
- Effortless to change pin size and optic color
- Single hand adjustment is effortless
- Micro-adjustable windage accuracy
- Smooth gear-driven control
Cons
- Finding the proper Allen wrench for adjustment
- Construction quality is a little low
6. AR 19 Series GWS Pro Hunter Bow Sight
Do you want to increase your hunting accuracy with a single pin bow sight, then look no further than the AP 19 Series GWS Pro Hunter Bow sight is a great choice primarily because of its performance and affordability. It is made for hunters who crave success in every outing.
The AR 19 GWS bow sight is made of high-quality aluminum. This could be a bonus given its price. You can forget about plastic and pick lightweight and durable metal. It also features Teflon-filled bushings, which provide smooth and durable adjustments. This is great since you can make the tool-less micro-windage.
It boasts of a 40-inch rigid fiber optic which will give you plenty of juice to power AR GWS’s pin to light your line of sight in low light conditions. However, it does not come with a rheostat which may not be necessary if you need additional light. However, it shouldn’t be a source of worry since such is not acceptable in certain jurisdictions for hunting.
The unit does not come with any preset yardage tapes. However, it does include blank ones on which you can create your markers. Furthermore, it has multiple mounting options but does not require very high adjustments. HHA Shim Plates could prove helpful in this regard.
Pros
- One of the most affordable bow sights
- 0.19-inch single pin for precision and accuracy
- Powerful 40-inch fiber optic
- Micro-windage adjustment for precise tuning
- Durable and lightweight aluminium construction
Cons
- Sight light is not included
- Poor installation instructions
7. Trophy Ridge React One Pro 1 Pin Bow Sight
Trophy Ridge React One Pro single-piece bow sight is one of the best pendulum sights currently in the market. It has several features and specifications that make it ideal for hunters.
First, the sight is faster and more precise compared to its competitors. When combined with the premium features of a top-of-the-line target sight, the exclusive React Technology offers you consistently high-performance hunt after hunt. In addition, you can easily take on and off this dovetail mounted sight to increase accuracy by positioning the pins further away from the shooter.
The second feature is the ultimate accuracy. This is delivered by .019″ small fibre optic yardage indicators that are visible regardless of the various prevailing environmental conditions. You can adjust the brightness to suit dawn, dusk, or any lighting with the rheostat light.
Furthermore, you can easily make corrections with React One Pro single-piece advanced tool-less micro-click windage and elevation adjustments. In addition, there are ten custom sight tapes and a lens retainer ring.
The third feature is the 3rd axis adjustment which strengthens accuracy at severe angles over longer distances. You will also learn of the sight’s durable construction with stainless steel hardware and 100% engineered aluminum.
Finally, the sight is designed specifically for right-handed use. Positions pin further away from the shooter for increased accuracy and automatically adjusts all those pins to the optimal location based on a mathematical calculation. Once you got two yardage marks precisely sighted in, all of the sight’s indicators out to a hundred yards are automatically set.
Pros
- Fast and markedly precise
- Decent levels of accuracy
- Third axis adjustment strengthens the accuracy
- Durable all-metal construction
- Automatic master adjustment screw
Cons
- It does not include a user’s manual
- The suitable optics but a little heavy compared to its competition
8. Apex AG2311BD Covert Dovetail 1 Pin .010/.019 Archery Sight
You cannot go wrong choosing the Apex AG2311BD Covert Dovetail. Like other lines from Apex, this single pin sight is one of the best pendulum bow sights currently in the market. In addition, several performance-oriented features and specifications make it an ideal choice for serious hunters.
It boasts of being a single pin sight with rapid-change pin technology. This will allow you to alter the pin size and color in a matter of seconds. On the other hand, the Dovetail mount provides more adjustability and straightforward sight removal for travel.
Apex Covert Dovetail features adjustable 2nd and 3rd axis, adjustable long-range yarded stop and rear-facing yardage tape. These features will help you to set your maximum sight travel.
The design comprises 010″ and 019″ pins with red, green, and yellow fibres. There is also a micro push-button sight light, and as well as over 60 pre-marked yardage tapes are also included. The aperture size of 1.87 inches is designed to accept a covert lens kit (sold separately).
Last but not least, the sight features micro windage adjustment to ensure it is fine-tuned for utmost precision and accuracy. Nevertheless, Apex Covert Dovetail is still one of the most affordable yet decent quality pendulums bow sights despite all these features.
Pros
- Innovative quick-change technology
- Micro-windage adjustment
- Dovetail mounting bracket
- Rear-facing sight-tape featuring adjustable indicator pin
Cons
- Value for the money but not bright enough
9. Black Gold Ascent Verdict Single Pin (.019) Right Hand Bow Sight
Ascent Verdict, dubbed the Moveable Black Gold, is one of the best pendulum bow sights currently in the market. With it, you can be guaranteed target sight accuracy, super-smooth adjustability with a turn of the Dial-of-Death knob and Black Gold’s legendary durability.
It boasts of the level head sight ring, the easiest and perhaps the most secure level available currently in the market. However, if you have had a chance to adjust a sight level, you recognize just how frustrating finicky, cumbersome-to-adjust levels can be.
Besides, you can customize the level to fit into the top part of the ring, further from your pins. The Ascent Verdict also features a novel 45-degree faceplate that allows you to read your sight tape from various angles.
The innovative streamlined Y-beam on the Verdict is quieter and more robust, and a lethal combination for hunters. Moreover, the so-called Dial-of-Death (DoD) adjustment system is one of the best in the industry. Now, it features the novel SureGrip knob that ensures hassle-free adjustability in any condition, including sweaty or gloved hands.
The Ascent multi-pin head mounts on a vertical dovetail to allow you to zero it out at the top range of the DoD. This way, you can instantly set your sight to a preset distance of choice in the dark or without looking. In addition, the package includes 54 various sight tapes customized for bows of almost all speeds.
Pros
- High target size accuracy and precision
- Legendary durability in construction
- Super smooth adjustability
- Quieter and stronger operation thanks to Y-beam
- Easily customizable for different speeds
Cons
- Need additional testing to know more
10. HHA DS-5010 Optimizer Lite Ultra 5000 .010 Sight
The HHA Optimizer Lite Ultra has a lot of similarities with its younger brother Optimizer Lite. The two have comparable performance with only slight differences in design. Of the most significant changes is replacing the slider in Lite to dial adjustment in Ultra.
In this case, the dial is much easier to operate than the slider. This is perhaps the most critical improvement because it helps with ease of use and appears more professional. The bow sight is armed with many additional features worth discussing.
First, Optimizer Ultra is fully adjustable without any tools once fastened to the bow. On the other hand, the windage adjustment operates through micro-adjust and boasts of a solid locking mechanism. You control elevation and lock it in place via the dial. The sight housing is located in five different locations. This affects the total range you can obtain out of sight.
Second, Optimizer’s Range Dial Shoot (RDS) technology helps you choose the suitable sight tape based on a two-distance calibration. According to HHA recommendation, you can choose 20 and 60 yards, although you can also use 20 and 40 yards.
Third, this pendulum bow sight is 100 per cent CNC machined aluminium. Construction is perfect, and the sight will be more abuse than you throw to it. Despite this level of durability, HHA backs the Optimizer Ultra with a solid warranty policy.
Another feature worth mentioning is one 5/8″ or 2″ sight housing which allows you to customize sight pictures. This multi-pin sight has three pins measuring 010, .019, and .029 and lets you pick the size of interest. In addition, some units are fitted with a mechanical rheostat, which allows you to dim the pin when light is excessive manually.
Pros
- Improved and user-friendly dial adjustment
- Rugged durability and solid pin design
- Versatile and suitable for different applications
- Multi-pin design offers more options
- Mechanical rheostat for all light conditions
Cons
- Optimizer Ultra lacks axis adjustments
- Lack of vibration damper in the sight
Buying Guide for the Best Pendulum Bow Sight
When looking for the best pendulum bow sight, you cannot base your choice on picture clarity. However, taking many features into account and considering them individually and together can help you make the best choice without spending too much money.
We shall discuss a few features and specifications that should guide you in finding what is best for your needs. Let’s carry on:
Design Quality
Quality is always directly proportional to the durability or ruggedness of any outdoor equipment, including bow sights. Durability, on the other, depends on the materials used to make bow sight. Some models use plastic, while others use metal. A few more models feature both metal and plastic components in their construction.
Most people agree that good quality plastic can make a decent bow sight, but durability may be questioned. All metal models are rugged and dependable. Housing, bracket, components, screws and other parts should feature full metal.
Stainless steel is solid and durable but heavier than plastic and aluminum. On the other hand, CNS machined aluminium qualifies to be one of the best materials because of its excellent durability and lightweight. However, you may have to pay more for the latter.
AdjustmentsAdjustments are essential if youtube the sight to give you the best sight pictures. There are three different types of adjustments: Tool-free, micro-adjustments and locking mechanism. 2nd adjustable axis is currently the darling of companies manufacturing pendulum bow sights.
3rd adjustable axis is also available but quite costly because it is better for bow sight adjustments. However, you need to learn that long-range and steep angle shooting applications will demand the best adjustment features you could get.
Pin Sizes
Bow sights can come as single-pin or multi-pin. According to many people, singe sights are easy to use, precise, accurate and generally quicker to set up and use. However, multi-pin models provide you with the additional versatility of choosing the best pin size that will work for you.
Besides picking the right pin, you must ensure that it has the right brightness to allow you to see your target appropriately. The range of shooting should determine the pin size you use. For instance, 0.29″ is ideal for short-range, 0.19″ for mid-range and 0.10″ for long-range.
Lighting
The majority of pendulum bow sights currently in the market are armed with adjustable lighting. More affordable models may have fiber optic sights that function at a single level. On the other hand, the more advanced models are outfitted with flexible lighting options.
Being affordable does not mean poor lighting. For example, fibre optic sights can effectively light in late dusk. However, a rheostat adjustable light setting is way better at lighting and allows you to adjust it to your preference. The setting is from full sunshine to almost total darkness.
The Built-in Level
This feature is only relevant if you buy the modern pendulum bow, sight models. Built-in levels are beneficial as they allow users to dial into and fine-tune their shots. The levels are designed to help users confirm their consistent stance when firing. Top-range models may go as far as featuring multiple axis levels that rapidly and quickly tell you if you are on point.
FAQs
Why should I invest in a pendulum bow sight?
Any type of bow sight can quickly improve your chances of hunting success. However, a pendulum bow sight provides an excellent accuracy factor.
Do I go for single pin or multi-pins sight?
A single pin bow sight can help you hunt various prey, including deer but only if it is adjustable. However, they boast of excellent clarity. The multi-pin models are incredibly versatile because of their excellent adjustability but may cost more.
Is pendulum bow sight ideal for beginners
There are three types of bow sights – fixed pin, moveable pin and pendulum. Beginners may find the latter type quite cumbersome to use. However, they can begin by using a fixed pin then moving up the ladder to gain more experience.
How do I set bow sight yardage?
The most common configurations depend on the number of pins the sight features. For instance, 3-pin sight is 20, 40, and 60 yards. However, it is typical to have 20 yards difference between each pin, but some may extend as low as 10 yards. Thus a 5-pin sight may feature 10-yard gaps.
Final Verdict
You can now begin your shopping for the best pendulum bow sight with confidence because you have the correct, in-depth information at your disposal. The ten sights we have reviewed are currently some of the best. They will provide you with the kind of performance you’ve been looking for. They are decent quality, accurate, quiet and relatively easy to use. They are also pocket friendly. If you haven’t found your desired model among our choices, use the buying guide to make a personal choice.
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